The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards are a joint effort between the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources to recognize the exemplary voluntary efforts of Iowa's farmers as environmental leaders committed to healthy soils and improved water quality.

Recipients of the award were presented with a certificate signed by Governor Terry Branstad. "We recognize the commitment and investment that Iowa Farmers have made to protect the soil and improve water quality and these awards are an opportunity to highlight their good work," said Governor Branstad.

In her first appearance in Iowa since being appointed head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Gina McCarthy expressed her appreciation for Iowa Farmers, "I am here to celebrate the progress you have had in advancing your yields and in serving the interests, and the benefits, and the health of this country."

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey acknowledged Iowa's Environmental Leaders for taking proactive measures to help make Iowa a leading agricultural state. "Iowa has tremendous farmers who are not only the most productive in the world, but who also understand that we must care for the soil and water and preserve it for the next generation," stated Northey.

As the sponsor of the luncheon, Hagie Manufacturing recognized those using innovative approaches to maintain the integrity of land and water quality. President & CEO Alan Hagie addressed the Environmental Leaders stating, "We want to make a difference in this world through our employees and also creating these innovative solutions that help to solve the problems we have with agriculture today." Hagie Manufacturing will continue to be a partner in providing crop production solutions that drive economic and environmental benefits for agricultural growers.

Hagie Manufacturing Company is located in Clarion. For more information about Hagie Manufacturing Company, visit www.hagie.com.